Health Library

A risk factor increases your chances of developing cancer. Modifying the following risk factors may help reduce your risk of stomach cancer.

General Guidelines

The general guidelines for helping reduce your risk of stomach cancer include the following:

Stop Smoking

A significant number of cases of stomach cancer may be associated with smoking. If you are a smoker, you should do everything within your power to stop. You are risking stomach cancer, as well as many other kinds of serious disease. Contact your doctor to see if you can use an alternative nicotine delivery system (nicotine patch, nicotine gum), hypnotherapy, or group support to help you make this difficult but important lifestyle change.

Alcohol may be a risk factor for stomach cancer. If you are a heavy drinker, consult with your doctor on methods that can help you stop drinking.

Get Treatment for Other Stomach Conditions

H. pylori
infection, chronic atrophic gastritis, and other chronic stomach conditions have been associated with an increased risk of developing stomach cancer. If you have any of these conditions, get medical treatment and follow through on medical recommendations for treatment.

Some studies have found a link between
aspirin
use and reduced rates of cancer in the lower stomach . Since taking aspirin can have side effects, including gastrointestinal bleeding, talk to your doctor before deciding to start aspirin therapy.

Eat a Nutritious Diet

More and more studies imply that diet can play a role in the prevention of cancer. Check with your doctor or see a registered dietitian (RD) to learn how to eat a diet:

High in fiber, fruits, and vegetables

Low in in saturated fats and meats

Furthermore, since stomach cancer has been associated with smoked, salted, and pickled foods, it would be wise to cut down on these foods as much as possible.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.